Spotlight: Jeffery Heggs (GA '25)

Dr. Jeffery Heggs (GA ‘25) transforms learning at Burke County High School by blending innovation, mentorship, and endless encouragement. Whether guiding students to master algebra, analyzing schoolwide data, or building community, he leads with purpose and heart. Heggs received his Milken Educator Award on November 21, 2025.

Milken Family Foundation: How have students responded since your Milken Educator Award surprise?

Students have been excited, inspired, and have fully embraced the moment. I dedicated this Award to them so they could see that they are capable of exceeding expectations and making a meaningful impact. Now, in my role in the media center, I continue to promote literacy by encouraging students to increase their reading and track their progress through Beanstack; the results have been very positive. Moments like our recent honors banquet—where several students identified me as an influential teacher—remind me that the impact is real. Ultimately, this experience has shown them that even from a rural community, they can be among the best in the world. I cannot let this moment pass without acknowledging the incredible students at Burke County High School.They are, without question, the absolute best.

I want to specifically recognize Jaxon “Parker” Cook, Anasophia “Nik” Gary and Kaleb Scott. These three are distinguished honor graduates in the Class of 2026, and I am deeply humbled that they chose me as their most influential teacher.

The reaction from these three—and indeed the entire student body at BCHS—has been one of sheer excitement and pride. Their energy serves as a powerful reminder to every young person in our halls: greatness, excellence, and the rewards of hard work have no geographic limitations. Whether you are in a large city or right here in Burke County, the world belongs to those who strive for it.

MFF: Who are your role models as an educator?

My role models are educators who lead with both excellence and heart. I’ve been influenced by former teachers who poured into me and modeled growth, as well as leaders in my district who demonstrate resilience and integrity in all situations. I am, in many ways, following in the footsteps of one of my favorite teachers, whom I consider a mentor—kudos to Mr. T. I also deeply respect servant leaders like Dr. Seabrooks, who consistently go above and beyond for students. My wife, Mrs. Mary Heggs, who is also an educator, is a daily example of dedication and care for her students. There are outstanding educators in my current school community as well, and I draw inspiration from those who give their very best to students every day.

MFF: Is there an experience you had in the classroom as a student that shaped your practices or motivation to teach?

As a student, I faced challenges, but I was consistently encouraged by teachers who pushed me to improve while also supporting me. One experience that stands out is seeing a teacher go above and beyond outside of class time to help a student succeed.his showed me what true commitment looks like. Additionally, coming from a family of educators, I was surrounded by examples of strong teaching and service. They even told me at a young age that I would be a teacher and preacher, and those words stayed with me. These experiences shaped my belief that great teaching requires both high expectations and genuine care.

MFF: Tell us about your first year of teaching and/or administration. What memories stand out? Who or what helped you through it?

My first year of teaching was both challenging and foundational, especially as a second-career educator. I had to learn quickly, but I was supported by a strong department (kudos to the WHS math department) and an instructional leadership team that modeled effective teaching and pushed me to grow. I was also a GATAPP teacher and worked under strong leadership to learn the fundamentals of teaching. I had the opportunity to work alongside a family member, Mr. Turner, an excellent educator, which further strengthened my development. That year taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying focused on students.

MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you?

I hope students remember that they were truly cared for and that they were pushed toward their greatness. I want them to leave knowing they are capable, confident, and equipped to succeed in any space they enter. Beyond academics, I want them to carry discipline, resilience, and a belief in themselves that does not change when things get difficult. I also hope they remember that I held them accountable because I saw potential in them, even when they did not always see it in themselves.

More than anything, I want them to walk away knowing they mattered—that they were seen, heard, and valued. As they move forward in life, I want them to understand that when they take steps in faith and purpose, God will take care of the rest. They are never walking alone.

MFF: How do you blend data, technology, and real-world experiences to create such a highly engaging and personalized learning environment for your students?

I use data to understand where students are and what they need, then tailor instruction to support their growth. Technology allows me to personalize learning and make it interactive and relevant. Now, in the media center, I have the opportunity to support both students and teachers with instructional technology, which has expanded my impact. It has been powerful to transition from a focus on numeracy to literacy, and in many cases, I intentionally blend both to create meaningful, cross-curricular learning experiences that connect to the real world.

MFF: What inspired you to build mentorship initiatives like the Bow Tie Club, and how do they shape student confidence and long-term success?

The inspiration came from a desire to develop students beyond academics by focusing on character, confidence, and leadership. As the co-founder of the Bow Tie Club, I helped provide a space for mentorship, accountability, and identity development that prepared students for future opportunities. While I am incredibly proud of that initiative, my efforts have since evolved into helping develop our Student Council. Through both of these ventures, my ultimate goal remains the same: to develop the whole student and equip them for long-term success.

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?

I am continuing to build programs that focus on literacy, leadership and student engagement through the media center. Kudos to Mrs. Wimberly, our media clerk.I could not do it without her. I also support initiatives such as a book club launched this year, student council, and mentorship through our student ambassador programs. All of these efforts are centered on investing in the next generation and developing student voice, confidence and leadership. I believe that effective educators have a responsibility not only to teach, but also to mentor and develop future leaders. My school has dedicated educators who are committed to student success, and it is a community focused on growth, impact and purpose.